Soon the numbers would disarm us,
And liberate him.

GORDON.

It were to be fear 'd.

BUTLER (_after a pause_).

Know, I am warranty for the event;
With my head have I pledged myself for his,
Must make my word good, cost it what it will,
And if alive we cannot hold him prisoner,
Why--death makes all things certain!

GORDON.

Butler! What?
Do I understand you? Gracious God! _You_ could--

BUTLER.

He must not live.

GORDON.

And _you_ can do the deed!

BUTLER.